Bristol’s SWX hosted an unforgettable performance by the incredibly talented local artist Katy J Pearson on Friday, the 29th of November. As a local favorite, Pearson’s connection with the city runs deep. Having moved to Bristol from Cirencester, she has played numerous gigs here over the years, making her return to SWX particularly meaningful. Throughout the set, it was evident that Bristol holds a special place in her heart. The feeling is mutual, as the venue’s impressive capacity of around 1,100 was filled with enthusiastic gig-goers that night.
Katy J Pearson is currently on tour promoting her latest and third album, Someday, Now, released in September 2024. The album explores themes of restlessness, dissatisfaction, and personal introspection, drawing inspiration from her solo travels and experiences. Tracks such as “Save Me” and “Siren Song” delve into vulnerability and the need for support, while songs like “It’s Mine Now” and “Maybe” reflect her struggles with self-assertion and personal growth.
The tour, which began in late October 2024, has been a major highlight for her fans. It has taken Pearson across the UK and Europe, with stops in Margate, Brighton, Southampton, Sheffield, Manchester, Glasgow, London, and beyond, including Germany, France, and Belgium. Each show has been a testament to her artistic evolution and her ability to connect deeply with her audience.
Pearson opened the night with the album’s title track, “Someday, Now.” Standing alone on stage with only a backlight and a microphone, she immediately captivated the audience with her hauntingly beautiful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. It was a gentle, mesmerizing start to the evening. Soon after, her band joined her on stage, seamlessly building energy and atmosphere. The setlist was a perfect blend of old and new, featuring tracks like “Those Goodbyes,” “Alligator,” and “Beautiful Soul.” Each song showcased her unique blend of indie pop and country influences, resonating profoundly with the crowd.
Beyond her music, the evening was enriched by Pearson’s warm interaction with the audience. In a humorous anecdote, she revealed that she had once applied for a job at SWX but never heard back, making her performance on that very stage all the more poignant. At one point, a booming voice from the back of the silent crowd shouted, “WE LOVE YOU, KATY!” Her gracious thank-you, met with a collective cheer, highlighted her connection with the city and her fans. Living nearby and being a familiar face in the Bristol music scene, Pearson has built a rapport that creates a welcoming, intimate atmosphere at her shows.
The main set concluded with “The Radio,” leaving the audience in a frenzy of applause. Pearson returned for an encore that included “Return,” “Tonight,” and “Sky,” cementing the night as an emotional journey through her musical landscape. The performance was complemented by stunning visuals, with strategic lighting and atmospheric smoke effects that highlighted the band members, adding another layer of enchantment to the show.
In conclusion, Katy J Pearson’s performance at SWX was a celebration of her artistic growth and her unwavering connection to her roots. Her ability to channel personal experiences into her music while engaging with her audience made for an unforgettable evening. If you ever have the chance to see her live, do not miss it.
Adam James @Adamjxphoto
Role: Photographer
I'm a semi-professional photographer that loves to capture anything and everything. I'd love to travel with my photography so going on tour has always been on my to-do list.
My first camera was gifted to me as a hand me down from my brother many many years ago and I've only gotten better since and learnt along the way.
Qualification: Self taught photographer/videographer. Didn't go to uni, work full time in telecomms.
Available for: Sport, events, portrait and anything that takes my fancy, other than weddings!
First attended gig: The first gig I attended was a band called Dog Is Dead at the Louisianna in Bristol. It was such a good gig and I recruited some family to take me as I was under 16! This band was my gateway into the Indie Pop Rock genre that I love today.
First gig shot: The first band I took pictures of was, was the first gig I went to alone. None of my friends liked the band, Pinegrove, so I contacted Thekla and asked if I could bring my camera. They let me in and I had my first photo pass! I still have the badge to this day.
Dream gig: Arctic Monkeys in the AM era. Watching Matt Bellamy run down the stage playing plug in baby. Moose Blood on a tour...!
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